cooperage

Cooperage refers to the craft of making barrels, casks, and other wooden containers used for storing and aging liquids like wine, whiskey, and beer. Skilled coopers select and shape wood staves, then assemble them into tight-fitting barrels using metal hoops. These containers allow liquids to interact with the wood, enhancing flavor and aging qualities. Cooperage is a specialized trade requiring craftsmanship to ensure the containers are durable, leak-proof, and suited for their specific storage needs, playing a vital role in the production of many alcoholic beverages.